Coral Reefs

Coral is a type of calcareous

Coral is a type of calcareous rock made of the skeletons of minute sea organisms called polyps. There are about 2,500 species of coral polyps, and the

When polyps die

When polyps die, their skeletons settle on the sea floor. New generations grow on top of the old skeletons, and layer after layer gradually builds a l

Coral polyps need a temperature

Coral polyps need a temperature of 20°C to 30°C, enough sunlight, clear salt water, and depths of 45 to 55 metres. Fresh water, highly saline water, d

Coral reefs are generally found between

Coral reefs are generally found between 30°N and 30°S latitudes. Warm tropical seas provide the best environment for coral growth.

A fringing reef is a coral

A fringing reef is a coral platform built along the coast of a continent or island. It forms a narrow belt with a steep slope towards the sea and a ge